CHESTERTOWN — It’s a revolving door and there is no one answer,” was Jamie Williams, Kent County Director of Tourism and Economic Development’s response, when asked why certain businesses in Kent County are closing their doors.
In the past few months, businesses like JJ’s Deli and Liquors have struggled. On April 19, they closed for good. Even before that date, ownership closed down the liquor side of the store to focus on soups, sandwiches and other deli items.
Their efforts, to the sadness of the many in the community, was not enough to keep it going.
“It is with bitter sweet emotions that we will be closing our doors for the last time April 19th, we tried our best,” the note on their door read.
Like them, Taco Bell/KFC is no longer, either. Between Arby’s and Dunkin’ Donuts, there’s no sign on the door, just an empty white space on the plaza sign.
Uncle Charlie’s Bistro also shut down, and The Prickly Pickle — closed in March, Williams pointed out.
Why is this happening? Williams said, “In a few cases, the owners wanted to retire. In another, rent was an issue for the location of the space. Running a business is tough — long hours, operating costs and increase in State license fees.”
Williams said her team reaches out to businesses on a continual basis and is hopeful of the new ones coming in and also the return of some. The area where Charlie’s Bistro used to be, on the other side of the building, Subway is reopening; a chain with almost 200 establishments in Maryland.
For those looking for a collection of trendy gifts, custom designed items, and Eastern Shore themed gifts, Nauti Blue Cottage in Rock Hall opened up. Also in Rock Hall, The Bay Breeze Inn II, under new ownership had their ribbon cutting on April 19.
For those weary of driving to Middletown or Queenstown for clothing articles, Label Shopper is a new addition opened up in Kent Plaza between Dollar Tree and the laundromat. This is the first business to open in that location since Gordman’s who cited the Covid-19 pandemic for shuttering its doors.
And to add competition for coffee and pastries, the foundation is being laid for Starbucks, located at 504 Washington Avenue where Rita’s Italian Ice used to be.
As Williams said, here in the county, it’s a revolving door.
And to the delight of many, Chestertown once again has an affordable family restaurant. Chestertown Farmer’s Table provides a farm to table style restaurant with fresh and locally sourced ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Although, they’ve had soft openings, they held their official ribbon cutting on Saturday. Executive Director of the Chestertown Chamber of Commerce Sarah King and some of her team, and Liliana Tschanett with the Small Business Administration came out for the ceremony.
Restaurant owner, David Ruth, alongside his wife, had moved to Kent County a few years back and immediately fell in love with the area. When he heard of Beverly’s closing down, he knew that was a Kent County staple and desired to keep the dining tradition going.
When asking the owners what is their strategy for staying open, they mentioned focusing on local products. They offer favorites like meatloaf, potpie, chicken and dumplings and serve breakfast until 3 p.m.
They were appreciative of the people coming out to see them.
“We are members of the Chestertown community, we love this town and the diverse group of people in our community... and, we can appreciate the recycling of life and business in the community.”
For establishments like Chestertown Farmer’s Table, fast food joints, inns, retail stores, and other businesses, Williams’ team works closely with the Maryland Department of Commerce Representative, Nancy LeJoice.
“She’s actively involved with our efforts,” Williams added.
Williams and LeJoice provide resources to help businesses stay afloat and then thrive in Kent County.
“Many businesses have taken advantage of State and Federal grants and loans through our outreach and partnerships with the business community,” Williams said, urging owners to take advantage.
She pointed out they are doing everything they can. Resources from Upper Shore Regional Council’s Business Mentoring Program, the Small Business Development Center, Maryland Capital Enterprises and SCORE resources and business counseling are available for free.
Also Williams spreads the word through posts on Facebook, X, (formerly Twitter), Instagram and LinkedIn, in an attempt to reach different demographics.
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